Trail

Hi all.
Looking at picking up a set of lighter wheels for my old 7 speed. I'm currently running Mavic rims and hubs @ 105/ 7 speed cassette/ 36 hole.
I'm never going to race again, but I'd like something a bit higher-performance. What's out there that will work for my bike?

Thanks.

clubman 

How about more details about the bike, pics are always great. Frame spread?. Are the wheels trashed or just tired?

Trail

Its a 1990 Trek 660; 126mm. Nothing at all wrong with the wheels...I bought them on eBay 4 years ago. They've been incredibly durable. However, I should really own a second wheel set, and I'm riding with some guys who are a bit faster now, so if I'm going to pick something up, I'd like something a little quicker (still has to be durable). I've been out of the whole thing for 20+ years, and I'm not sure what's out there that'll fit the older frame. I can always go back on eBay and pick up another old wheel set, but if I'm going to invest, might as well look at new (or new-ish).

clubman 

Tough one. If you can't justify the upgrade to a fast(er) bike, I think you'd have to buy some quality tubulars to really help with your speed deficit.
You want fast, durable and good value? Pick two...

jetboy 

really depends on your price point - wheels make a huge difference. I would look for used, i picked up a set of ultegra 6800 for under 200 (with good tires)- not the lightest wheel, but SMOOTH and can take tons of abuse and not complain- also can run tubeless though I have not yet. the seller had moved up to some sort of 600$+ CF wheel and I was ready to catch their leavings.
They really are quite good.. my favorite wheels over similar campy and reynolds offerings i have on other bikes.

bark_eater 

O.P., What tires are you rideing?

Trail

Michelin Oriums. (not made anymore).

Salamandrine 

It's kind of a tough question because the road standard shifted from 126 to 130 in the 90's. If you use new hubs and spread your frame, your old wheels won't work anymore, and you'll need to change your shifters etc too.

A middle ground would be to rebuild your current wheels with something semi aero like Velocity A23. I like the OC for the back. Must be time for new rims anyway. Will it make much difference? Probably a slightly tighter jersey will improve your aerodynamics more, but every little bit helps...

The most rational answer is just get some new tires. Clinchers are a lot better and faster rolling now than they were in 1990. GP4000/5000 is a good one.

bark_eater 

You might want to try some lighter tires on your rims to give a better base line to compare an up grade to.

Michelin Oriums

700C x 23 MM: 280 grams
700C x 25 MM: 300 grams

Continental Grand Prix 5000
700C x 23 MM: 205 grams
700C x 25 MM: 220 grams